How can I keep my pet cool in the summer?
How to Keep Your Pet Cool in the Aussie Summer
Summer in Australia is like no other. The heat can be intense, and while we might be counting down until our next beach day (remember to slip, slop, slap!), our pets are often struggling with the rising temperatures. So, here’s some tips to keep your dog safe in hot weather.
Signs of Overheating and What to Do
Pets can’t always tell us when they’re getting too hot, so it’s important to know the signs of heat stress. Watch for excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and a lack of interest in food or water.
If your dog is overheating, it’s important to cool them down quickly but safely. Start by moving them to a cool, shaded area away from the sun. Offer them fresh, cool water to drink, but avoid forcing them to drink too much at once. You can also wet a towel with cool (not cold) water and gently wipe it over their paws, belly, and ears to help lower their body temperature. A shallow bath or spraying them with cool water can also help, but avoid using ice-cold water, as it could cause shock. If your dog is panting heavily, place them in front of a fan or air conditioning to help cool them off. Keep monitoring their condition closely, if they don’t start cooling down or showing signs of distress, contact a vet immediately.
Hydration!
Just like us, pets can get dehydrated quickly in the heat. Make sure your pet always has access to fresh, cool water. You might even want to add a few extra water bowls around the house or garden, especially if you’ve got an energetic pet who loves to run around. Extra water and ice are a great way to keep your dog cool during summer.
Tip: Add a couple of ice cubes to their water to keep cool for longer or freeze some water in the bottom of their bowl overnight and add water to it in the morning!
Shade is Your Best Friend
Pets, especially those with thick coats, can easily overheat. Whether you’re at the beach, in the backyard, or just lounging at home, make sure there’s a shaded area where your pet can escape the direct sun. A shady tree, a covered patio, or even an umbrella can work wonders. If you're out on a walk, try to avoid areas with little to no shade.
Tip: If you're at home, consider getting a pet-friendly cooling mat that helps regulate your pet's body temperature.
Early Morning or Late Evening Walks
While it’s tempting to take your dog out for a walk in the middle of the day, it's much better to do it in the cooler parts of the day: early morning or late evening. The pavement can get really hot and burn your pet’s paws, so try to walk on grass or dirt paths. If you absolutely must go out during the day, keep it short and ensure there's plenty of water for your pet. Your dog might hate them, but you can also try doggy shoes to keep the pads of their feet protected. It is also worth taking water and a portable dog bowl on your walks to keep your pup cool and hydrated!
Tip: Check the ground temperature with the back of your hand, if it's too hot for you to touch for 10 seconds, it's too hot for your pet!
Grooming
A good grooming session can help keep your pet cool in summer. Regular brushing gets rid of loose fur and helps improve airflow to their skin. For pets with longer coats, a summer trim can be a lifesaver! Never shave your pet completely, their fur helps protect them from the sun and keeps them cool. If you’re unsure, ask a professional groomer for advice on the best cut for your pet.
Tip: Cats and dogs with light-coloured or short fur might need a little extra help, consider pet-safe sunscreen for their noses or ears.
Cool Treats for a Cool Pet
Who doesn’t love a cold treat on a hot day? Make sure your pet gets in on the fun with some refreshing homemade frozen treats. You can feed a Big Dog patty frozen, just keep an eye on them while they eat this, this is a great way to cool your dog down quickly! If you have a smaller dog, try feeding our Raw Bites frozen.
If you’re feeling creative, check out these recipes for frozen probiotic treats!
Car Safety
This one is a biggie. Temperatures inside a parked car can rise incredibly fast, even on mild days, and can quickly become life-threatening for your pet. Never, ever leave your pet in a turned off car, not even for a few minutes. If you need to run errands, bring your pet along, or leave them at home in a cool, shaded area.
Snooze In Style
To keep your dog cool overnight during the summer, ensure their sleeping environment stays comfortable and safe. Avoid using closed crates in hot rooms, as they can trap heat; instead, opt for an open, well-ventilated crate or provide a cooling mat. If you’re dog sleeps in the garage, make sure it’s not too warm, check the temperature to ensure it’s cool enough for your dog to sleep in, as garages can heat up quickly. You can also leave windows open for airflow or use a fan to keep air circulating. Always provide fresh water, and if your dog is a heavy sleeper, keep an eye on their behaviour to ensure they’re not overheating while resting.
Make A Splash
Some pets absolutely love a good splash in the water. If you have a pool, a shallow kiddie pool, or access to a pet-friendly beach, it’s a great way to let your dog cool off quickly! You can also spray them down with cool water!
Tip: If you have a chlorine pool, try to minimise the amount of water your dog drinks and rinse them off after a swim to remove any chemicals. If you take your dog swimming in a creek or at the beach, check their skin for any bugs after!
Provide Entertainment Without the Extra Heat
To keep our dogs cool in hot weather, sometimes playtime needs to be a little more chill. Avoid the intense games of fetch in the middle of the day. Instead, try puzzle toys, frozen treats, or even a cool, indoor play session. If your dog loves water, a gentle spray from the garden hose can be a great way to cool them down while having fun!
Know Your Pet’s Breed and Special Needs
Some pets are more prone to heat stress than others. Short-nosed breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs can have a harder time breathing in the heat, while long-haired or thick-coated breeds like Huskies and Newfoundlands may need extra care to stay cool. Always adjust your summer care to suit the specific needs of your pet’s breed.
Tip: If you’re unsure about how to care for your pet in the heat, talk to your vet for tailored advice.
Stay Cool!
With a little planning and care, your pet can stay safe, happy, and cool all summer long. Just like us, our furry companions need some TLC when the weather heats up. Keeping your dog cool in summer is all about being proactive, whether it’s ensuring they have access to fresh water, setting up a cool resting area, or adjusting playtime to avoid the heat of the day, small efforts can go a long way in keeping them comfortable and healthy.